RCW 77.57.020
Review of permit applications to divert or store water—Water flow policy.
It is the policy of this state that a flow of water sufficient to support game fish and food fish populations be maintained at all times in the streams of this state.
The director of ecology shall give the director notice of each application for a permit to divert or store water. The director has thirty days after receiving the notice to state his or her objections to the application. The permit shall not be issued until the thirty-day period has elapsed.
The director of ecology may refuse to issue a permit if, in the opinion of the director of ecology, issuing the permit might result in lowering the flow of water in a stream below the flow necessary to adequately support food fish and game fish populations in the stream.
The provisions of this section shall in no way affect existing water rights.
[ 2005 c 146 § 902; 1993 sp.s. c 2 § 29; 1988 c 36 § 32; 1986 c 173 § 7; 1983 1st ex.s. c 46 § 71; 1955 c 12 § 75.20.050. Prior: 1949 c 112 § 46; Rem. Supp. 1949 § 5780-320. Formerly RCW 77.55.050, 75.20.050.]
NOTES:
Part headings not law—2005 c 146: See note following RCW 77.55.011.
Effective date—1993 sp.s. c 2 §§ 1-6, 8-59, and 61-79: See RCW 43.300.900.
Structure Revised Code of Washington
Chapter 77.57 - Fishways, Flow, and Screening.
77.57.010 - Fish guards required on diversion devices—Penalties, remedies for failure.
77.57.020 - Review of permit applications to divert or store water—Water flow policy.
77.57.030 - Fishways required in dams, obstructions—Penalties, remedies for failure.
77.57.040 - Director may modify inadequate fishways and fish guards.
77.57.050 - If fishway is impractical, fish hatchery or cultural facility may be provided in lieu.
77.57.060 - Director may modify inadequate fishways and protective devices.
77.57.070 - Diversion of water—Screen, bypass required.
77.57.080 - Operation and maintenance of fish collection facility on Toutle river.